Butler gets shot at IBF champion Zolani Tete on March 6

The 26-year-old was due to face the South African in October but southpaw Tete, 26, broke his hand in training and he went on to instead beat Ismael Garnica on points, also at the Echo Arena.

Butler won the IBF bantamweight title by split decision against countryman Stuart Hall in June. But he vacated the strap in July to return to the 115-pound division.

In victory, Butler would become the first British boxer since heavyweight Bob Fitzsimmons in 1903 to drop down in weight to win a second world title.

Promoter Frank Warren said: "I believe that Paul is a super talent, and I'm especially pleased to deliver him a second and history-making world title opportunity against Tete, which should have happened in October. He gets the chance now, and I'm sure he'll grab the opportunity with both hands."